@Latinya Channer

It can be difficult to pinpoint a single researcher on this topic because the church-community relationship is a vast field of study. However, there are several prominent scholars who have done significant work in this area. Here are some names to get you started:

Donald Miller: Miller is a sociologist who has written extensively about the changing nature of religion in America, including the decline in church attendance and the growing disconnect between churches and their communities. His book "Demolishing the Myth" explores these themes.

Stephen L. Nock: Nock is another sociologist whose research focuses on the relationship between religion and civil society. His book "The Social Benefits of Religion" examines the positive impact that religious institutions can have on communities.

Rodney Stark: Stark, a sociologist of religion, takes a more positive view of the church-community relationship. He argues that churches play a vital role in social capital and community development. His book "City of God" delves into this perspective.

Robert Putnam: Putnam, a political scientist, is best known for his book "Bowling Alone, which explores the decline of social capital in America. While not solely focused on churches, his work is relevant to understanding the changing role of religious institutions in communities.

Evelyn and James Whitehead: This husband-and-wife team are sociologists who have studied the Black Church and its role in African American communities. Their work, such as "Religion in the African-American Experience", highlights the unique dynamics of faith-based institutions within specific cultural contexts.

In addition to these individual scholars, there are also research institutions that focus on religion and its role in society. Here are a couple of examples:

The Pew Research Center: This nonpartisan research organization frequently conducts surveys and studies on religion and public life, including the relationship between churches and communities. You can find their relevant reports on their website.

The Hartford Institute for Religion Research: This institute at Hartford Seminary in Connecticut conducts research on a variety of topics related to religion, including its role in civic life and social change. Explore their website for resources.

This is not an exhaustive list, but it should give you a good starting point for your research into the church-community relationship, its potential disconnect, and strategies for rebuilding connections.